Mashatu, located in Botswana's Northern Tuli Game Reserve, is set to unveil an innovative wildlife photography hide in October. Named the **Lala Limpopo Sleepout Hide**, this unique accommodation is designed to provide wildlife photographers with an immersive experience, offering them a concealed vantage point for capturing stunning images of animals in their natural habitat.
A collaborative effort between Mashatu and C4 Photo Safaris, Lala Limpopo is built into the ground at a waterhole previously known as Pete's Pond. The hide allows photographers to observe wildlife at eye level, often from just a few feet away, as animals come to drink. The hide can accommodate up to four guests and includes a small kitchen, a lounge and dining area, a full bathroom, and a separate bedroom for a tour leader or guide.
To enhance the photographic experience, the hide features innovative lighting around the waterhole. This nonintrusive lighting is adjustable for both day and night photography, with sensors to alert guests to nocturnal activity. A full control panel allows photographers to modify the lighting's side, front, and back angles, as well as the color temperature.
In addition to its prime photographic setup, Lala Limpopo also offers facilities for editing photos between shoots and a small outdoor courtyard for guests to enjoy the surroundings without disturbing the wildlife.
Mashatu's other underground hide, Matebole, is well-known for producing award-winning photographs, including Greg du Toit's "Essence of Elephants," which earned the Wildlife Photographer of the Year title in 2013.
Lala Limpopo will be available for exclusive bookings at $1,600 per night or $450 per person sharing, with a special 50% discount for October and November. However, the hide will close during the rainy season from December to February. This unique experience is an additional activity for guests staying at one of Mashatu's various camps, including Euphorbia Mashatu, Kolokolo Safari Home, and Mashatu Lodge.
